By Jacqueline Thomas
Description of Victoria Falls in Africa
Victoria Falls is known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Due to its spectacular 5,600-foot width and 308-foot drop, it is also the world's largest waterfall.
Name Origin
Before receiving an English name, Victoria Falls was known as Mosi-oa-Tunya. This roughly translates into "smoke that thunders."
Location
Victoria Falls is located on the border between two southern African nations, Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is part of the Zambezi River, which ultimately flows to the Indian Ocean.
Description
Victoria Falls is formed as the Zambezi River plunges off of a plateau and into a deep chasm. Because of the island formation at the Falls' precipice, it appears that Victoria Falls is made up of several streams of waterfalls.
Surrounding Area
The area prior to the waterfall is deceptively flat. Adjacent to the Falls is a small, lush rain forest.
Rainbow
Rainbows can be found at the highest part of the Falls, also known as Rainbow Falls. During the full moon, onlookers may find a moonbow at nighttime.
About the Author:
Jacqueline Thomas is an award-winning writer and poet. She studied creative writing at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and has written critically acclaimed pieces for over 20 years. Thomas is published in both traditional and online press, and has articles that reached the Digg Front Page.
Photo Credits:
Adam Annfield, I_pinz, Thelizardqueen, Sara&Joachim, Hlihli, Ruth Flickr (Flickr)
